Stop and Smell ... That Sweet, Sweet Entrepreneurial Freedom!
One of the big reasons people decide to become entrepreneurs is for the freedom. It’s true that they love what they’re doing and believe in its impact, but it’s also the appeal of being able to be your own boss and make your own hours. So, if freedom and flexibility were the reasons you became an entrepreneur – why are you still doing it all?
Costs & Missions & Assessments ... Oh My!
I was listening to a podcast recently called, "Freakonomics Radio," hosted by Stephen Dubner. Something that was discussed during this series was a thing called “cost disease.” Now, if you haven’t heard this term before, don’t fret – neither had I.
Turning Fear into Excitement: Your Best Business Decision Ever!
I recently did something that was equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking. And it pushed me out of my comfort zone. And you know what? I survived! and I think it actually went well.
Doctor’s Orders: One Relaxing Summer Vacation, Take Consecutively for 7 days
10 years ago, I defended my doctoral dissertation on burnout. At that time, no one was really talking about burnout. And little did I know how prophetic that research would become.
The Misery Manual (And How to Burn It)
Want to know the secret to living a miserable life? Or do you want the antidote that will remedy 90% of these unhappiness ailments? Goal setting. Plain and simple. Here are 5 guaranteed ways to be unhappy and how setting goals is the cure.
The Power of Trusted Relationships in Business: Why Your "Band" Matters
When my husband and I acquired Griswold Home Care in New Castle County two years ago, I needed reliable support across various business functions. My solution was simple but powerful: I got the band back together. They’re my trusted allies who share our values and approach to business.
The 8+8+8 Rule: A Guide to Making the Most Out of Your Day
I recently saw a post about the 8+8+8 Rule and thought it was a great reminder! I then took a minute just to check in to see how I did the day before. And I’m not going to lie – it was pretty balanced! “What is the 8+8+8 Rule?” you may be asking.
From Home Comfort to Team Energy: Why I'm Excited About Going Back to the Office
Earlier this year, I sat in an empty office waiting for a delivery of a conference table and a refrigerator – typical when you’re moving to a new office (#entrepreneurlife). While I was there, I had a couple of meetings on Zoom. We laughed and joked about how bizarre it was to be taking this meeting from a mostly empty office. But after we said our goodbyes, I reflected on a few things ...
Why People Really Stay: It's Not Just About the Paycheck
Countless companies throw money at their retention problems – higher salaries, catered lunches, ping pong tables – only to watch their best talent walk out the door anyway. Why? Because they missed what actually matters. What employees truly crave is painfully simple: to be seen and valued for who they are and what they contribute.
Why I'm Making “Zero Work, 100% OFF” My New Non-Negotiable
A few months ago, I made a resolution for myself and started implementing it immediately. Looking forward at 2025, I have a lot of things I’m excited for – and I mean REALLY excited. But if I’m going to get there with continued enthusiasm and without dropping the ball, I’ve got to start respecting my boundaries a heck of a lot more.
The Secret to GSD – Part 2 of 2: Excel is my BFF
I recently found myself juggling the largest client roster I've ever had at once and the workload was starting to feel overwhelming! My trusty pen-and-paper lists and daily sticky notes weren't cutting it anymore – Enter my surprisingly simple Excel system that's been a total game-changer:
The Secret to GSD – Part 1 of 2: A Sticky Note and a To-Do List
Ever wonder how some people seem to effortlessly juggle work, family responsibilities, volunteering – the whole nine yards – and still make time for themselves? Well, I have a secret to "Getting Sh*t Done" (GSD)! Nothing fancy or complicated - just a sticky note and a to-do list!
Embracing 50: A Journey of Wisdom, Joy, and Legacy
In February, I celebrated my 50th birthday … and I found myself caught in an emotional tug-of-war – both loving and loathing this significant milestone. But that morning, I made a decision: 50 isn't just a number; it's a mindset. And I'm fully committed to embracing this new chapter with intention and purpose.
Board and Executive Director Relationship – Part 3/3: Creating an Excellent Working Relationship
You've poured your heart into your nonprofit's mission. You've nailed the fundraising, developed strong programs, and built a stellar team. But if you don’t have an excellent ED-Board partnership, you can only get so far. So, let’s take a look on how to ensure your partnership is out of this world.
The F.I.T.T.S. Framework: A Gray Breakthroughs Decision Analysis Exercise
The thing that differentiates a good idea from a great one is if it’s actually worth your time, energy, and resources to pursue. You have to take that 30-thousand-foot view of something and determine if it’s a good idea or if it will just leave you frustrated and anxious about the potential unintended consequences of pursuing something you shouldn’t have.
Board and Executive Director Relationship – Part 2/3: Board Excellence Blueprint
Part of what makes your board able to give support to your Executive Director is by having out of this world board governance. This might sound overwhelming - but by following this Board Excellence Blueprint, your board will be outstanding in no time. An excellent board leads directly to amplifying your nonprofit’s impact.
Board and Executive Director Relationship – Part 1/3: Supporting Your Executive Director
We all know you joined your nonprofit's board because you care about the mission - but do you ever wonder why some nonprofits create tremendous impact while others are barely moving the needle? The difference often comes down to how the board supports its Executive Director. When your ED thrives, your entire organization flourishes.
Boost Your Business While Making a Difference: The Rotary Advantage
We’ve all heard “Rotary this...” and “Rotary that...” - but what exactly is Rotary? And is it really something worth putting your time into? Rotary International describes itself as “a global network of neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change.” And yes, it is absolutely worth it.
Building Bonds, Not Just Buzz: The True Value of Sponsorships
You know that feeling when your traditional marketing efforts just aren't cutting it anymore? It's time to shake things up with strategic sponsorships that can transform your business presence. There’s a reason that companies stay in your brain - like State Farm and Coors Light. And it’s not because of your untapped passion for insurance and beer. It’s because you see them making a difference in your community through sponsorships.
Beyond the Like Button: Creating Authentic Online Community Engagement for Nonprofits
The days when social media success was measured purely in likes and shares are long gone – that’s so 2012. To stay with the times, nonprofits need to foster genuine connections that inspire real community involvement. But how can you create meaningful digital engagement that actually moves the needle?